Friday, March 29, 2024

HOLY BASIL

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In a nod to the Christian festival of Lent, Better Health takes a look at another healing herb called ‘holy basil’.

Known for centuries as ‘tulsi’ in India, it has been traditionally used for its ability to support a healthy response to stress, natural detoxification, boost to immunity, increase of stamina, endurance and energy, as well as restoring balance and harmony in the body. It also treats a range of ailments, from eye diseases to ringworms.

According to organicindia.com, modern research has classified Tulsi as an adaptogenic herb. An adaptogen is a natural substance that helps your body adapt to stress and promotes mental balance.

“Adaptogens have been shown to support the body’s healthy reactions to stress. Adaptogenic herbs have been used in the Ayurvedic tradition for thousands of years to promote and maintain wellness. In fact, many adaptogenic herbs have been referred to by herbalists as rejuvenative herbs, qi tonic herbs, rasayanas or restorative herbs. They help the body adapt to environmental, physical and emotional stressors, support normal functions and restore balance,” the website stated.

Healthline.com clarifies that ‘holy basil’ isn’t like the sweet basil grown in our gardens. Holy basil is hairy, the stems are purple and the leaves have a jagged edge. It has a clove flavour, and can be grown either outdoors or indoors. Sweet basil, which is more popular for foods, has a sweeter flavour, the leaves are smooth, the stems are green and it needs full sunlight to grow.

“From the leaves to the seed, holy basil is considered a tonic for the body, mind, and spirit.

Different parts of the plant are recommended for treating different conditions:

• Use its fresh flowers for bronchitis.

• Use the leaves and seeds, with black pepper, for malaria.

• Use the whole plant for diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting.

• Use the pill and ointment form for eczema.

• Use an alcohol extract for stomach ulcers and eye diseases.

• Use an essential oil made from the leaves for insect bites,” the website reveals.

The entire plant of holy basil can be used for medical purposes, and it is also a source of vitamin A and C, calcium, zinc, iron and chlorophyll. Extracts made from its leaves are thought to boost wound healing speed and strength. As such, holy basil is antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiinflammatory and analgesic.

Holy basil is also high in antioxidants and helps your body detox. Sources show that holy basil can protect your body against toxic chemicals. It may also prevent cancer by reducing the growth of cancerous cells.

Ensure that your holy basil is grown in an unpolluted environment. Holy basil grown in a polluted area may contain twice the toxicity.


USE ITS FRESH FLOWERS FOR BRONCHITIS.USE THE LEAVES AND SEEDS, WITH BLACK PEPPER, FOR MALARIA.

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